Academic & Career Counselor

Action Inc.; Halifax Regional Municipality; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Academic & Career Counselor to assist clients in achieving their academic and career goals. This role involves providing guidance through motivational interviewing and coaching, helping clients navigate job training programs, and supporting them in their journey towards employment or college enrollment. You will work with a diverse clientele, including youth, and engage in community outreach through workshops and local events. Join a team that values empathy, collaboration, and community impact, and make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or 4 years of relevant experience required.
• Experience supporting vulnerable individuals is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide academic and career counseling to clients.
• Assist clients with job searches, resume writing, and college applications.

Skills

Attention to detail

Customer service skills

Empathy

Teamwork

Basic computer skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

4 years of relevant work experience

Tools

Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)

CMS database

Job description

Are you passionate about helping others and making a lasting impact? Join the Action Inc. team as our new Academic & Career Counselor!

The mission of Action Inc. is to build an equitable and resilient community by creating opportunities for all on Cape Ann.

Job Summary:

Assist clients in obtaining their academic and career goals by providing motivational interviewing, coaching, and assistance navigating resources and opportunities. Work with clients to explore potential academic and career paths, assisting them with enrolling in job training, obtaining employment, and/or applying for college. This position works with clients of all ages, though a large portion of the case load is focused on serving students ages 16-24 in the Compass Youth HISET Preparation Program.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide clients with academic and career counseling and case management, helping them identify, navigate, and meet their goals.
• Provide intake meetings with clients, assessing client needs and eligibility for programs. Process applicant paperwork, enter and track data, collect and needed documentation.
• Assist clients with job search, resume writing, cover letter writing, interview skills, and job applications. Help clients understand the key components to being a successful employee.
• Help clients apply for job training programs and provide case management to support the client in successfully completing the program.
• Assist clients with applying to college. Provide resources and support around navigating the college process, such as applying for scholarships and financial aid, enrolling in classes, etc.
• Assist Compass students with obtaining internships. Provide case management to support students throughout their internship.
• Host workshops and information sessions related to career services, job training, and college enrollment.
• Bring clients on tours of local colleges and job training sites.
• Participate in local job and training fairs as applicable; encourage clients to attend the fairs when fitting.
• Develop and steward relationships with local employers and training providers.
• Get to know clients and understand the needs and barriers they may be facing. Help clients overcome barriers by providing supportive services such as transportation assistance and help obtaining IDs.
• Assist clients with understanding basic computer skills, managing online calendars, and email etiquette.
• Provide referrals to needed services, referring to other departments within Action Inc. as well as partner organizations.
• Maintain internal database (CMS) as related to services.
• Assist Career & Financial Empowerment Manager with grant reporting as needed.
• Attend and participate in departmental, organization-wide, and other meetings.
• Act in the best interest of the organization, reflecting the values of teamwork, collaboration and mutual respect.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• High attention to detail and self-motivated
• Enjoys working both independently and in a team environment
• Excellent customer service skills, polite and friendly demeanor. Treats clients with empathy and respect.
• Ability to work in and help promote a welcoming and trauma-informed environment
• Basic computer skills. Comfortable with Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, and Excel. Ability to learn and utilize Action's internal CMS database.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in related field or 4 years of relevant work experience
• The proven ability to engage and support vulnerable individuals
• Experience with opportunity youth and young adults
• Familiarity with local resources and public benefits a plus

Physical Demands:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift, move, and carry 15 lbs.